Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup:

Ingredients:
1 lb Irish bacon (or substitute with regular bacon or pancetta)
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
1 small head of cabbage, shredded
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for creaminess)
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Cook the Bacon: